1974 C.F. Martin & Co. D-45

A mid-1970s D-45 — Martin's flagship acoustic with full abalone ornamentation. Indian rosewood and spruce deliver excellent tone while the abalone inlay represents the pinnacle of acoustic guitar artistry.

Current Market Value

Excellent
$19,000$36,000
Very Good
$12,000$19,000
Good
$7,200$12,000
Fair
$3,600$7,200

* Prices are estimates based on recent market data. Actual value depends on originality, condition, and provenance. Pricing methodology

Specifications

Body WoodSpruce (top), Indian Rosewood (back and sides)
Neck WoodMahogany
FingerboardEbony
Scale Length25.400"
Frets20
Pickup ConfigNone (acoustic)
BridgeEbony belly bridge (with abalone inlay)
TunersGrover Sta-Tite (gold)
Finish OptionsNatural
Est. Production480

Pickups & Electronics

Pure acoustic — full abalone inlay treatment.

What Changed in 1974

Mid-1970s D-45 — production stabilized. Indian rosewood standard. The D-45 remained Martin's most ornate and prestigious production model. The abalone inlay treatment is breathtaking regardless of the rosewood species.

Collector's Notes

Mid-1970s D-45s are the most accessible way to own Martin's flagship model. The abalone inlay alone justifies the premium over standard models. Check inlay condition carefully.